Benni McCarthy guides Kenya to thumping win in World Cup Qualifiers

World Cup 2026 09 September 2025 at 11:56

Hlayisani Magoro

News Editor

Kenya national team head coach Benni McCarthy oversaw his troops thrash Seychelles 5-0 in their FIFA World Cup Qualifiers clash on Tuesday.

Ryan Ogam broke the deadlock seven minutes from the first whistle, before Collins Sichenje doubled the lead in the 35th minute.

Young Africans midfielder Duke Abuya tripled the goal tally three minutes later as Michael Olunga converted from the spot on the stroke of half time to ensure a four-goal cushion at the break.

The Al-Arabi center-forward got his second of the game six minutes after the hour mark to complete the rout.

Despite the commanding win, Kenya’s hopes of sealing qualification for the 2026 global showpiece are slim as they are in fourth place with two games to go.

The Harambee Stars trail table toppers Ivory Coast with 10 points and second-placed Gabon with nine points, having accumulated nine points in eight matches.

McCarthy’s men will wrap up their qualifying campaign with a visit to Burundi next month, before hosting Ivory Coast in their penultimate match.